FAQ + SHIPPING

Wait, are these pieces actually made of concrete?

Nope! These items are all hand-made on the pottery wheel with grey stoneware clay. When you see & touch them, you'll get how this clay really reminds me of concrete. It's kind of special for me - not only is this collection inspired by my time living in the Barbican, but my grandfather also ran the Firth Concrete plant in Taranaki from the 1930's to the 1960's. I'd like to think he'd be into seeing all these pieces. But then again, after 30 years of being surrounded by concrete every day at work, maybe he wouldn't! 

 

Who are you?

I'm Adrienne - hi. I'm a photographer and art director who strives to find joy in the little things in life - including the things I choose to surround myself with. I've moved house (and country) a lot, and I've found the things that I have held on to over the years have been the simplest of items that just bring me joy. I like thoughtful, tactile pieces which complement the spaces I'm inhabiting. Maybe you do, too? 

 

Where do you ship to?

Everywhere! Shipping rates from Aotearoa New Zealand can be expensive, so you'll notice the rates are *much* cheaper for those in Australia and NZ. The further a package travels from these isles, the more miles and $ it clocks up. We know it sucks. We wish it was cheaper, too.

 

How often do you ship?

Orders are shipped once a week from our base in Tauranga, Aotearoa New Zealand. 

 

I live in Tauranga - can I get local pickup?

Absolutely! Please use the code HILOCALFRIEND during checkout for free local pickup. Please only use this code if you are indeed able to pickup from Tauranga - if you use it and can't pick up from Tauranga, the items will be refunded and go back into the store for other people to purchase. Thanks for being excellent.

 

Why is checkout telling me I can't buy some items?

We are currently only sending packages up to 5kg within NZ, and up to 2kg to the rest of the world. If checkout is saying some items can't ship, you will have a combined weight of multiple items that is higher than our rates allow. You can place separate orders with separate shipping, and we will combine them into one package here and refund any extra shipping charges to you. Please let us know via email if you have any issues. We know teething problems may be inevitable!

 

What about import fees and taxes?

Any import fees or taxes to receive a package are the customer's responsibility. It's impossible for us to know what these are for each country, so we do not charge anything for them. If you are ordering something to be sent to a country other than New Zealand, please be aware that your own country may have customs/import charges that you might need to pay.

 

Tell me about your packaging.

We strive to recycle as much packaging as possible. Your purchase may arrive in pre-used boxes and wrapping. Please excuse the outer appearance - it's all in the name of creating less waste.

 

The piece I wanted is sold out!

Sorry about that! Limited pieces have been made for this collection, but I am happy to take on commissions. Feel free to send me an email!

 

How can I best look after my purchase?

We recommend gentle hand washing of any handmade ceramic piece to prolong its life and keep it looking its best.